GemsByJules

So far so good

2012-01-26T21:52:00.000-08:00

Been a while since I posted and I am happy to report that 2012 is off to a decent start for me. Surprisingly, business has been busier than I expected with several special orders - and the tail end of orders from my holiday shows - keeping my hands busy while I watch tv.

My muse has been working overtime the past few days and as a result, I have laid out plans for 4 new designs. I can hardly wait to get my special orders done so that I can get them all made up. Hopefully I will have enough money left over from my income tax refund after catching up my bills, that I will be able to upgrade my photo software program so I can actually upload some new pictures to my shop! I have many, many more designs in my head just waiting to be laid out, but just don't have enough time in the day to get them all planned and made. Boredom will never be an issue with me. =)

I actually printed a contract today for show on November 17th, 2012. I can hardly believe that I am looking at a show for November already! I hope that I can find some shows to do over the spring and summer though. I love doing warm weather shows but seem to have trouble finding ones that are inside. At some point I would love to have a tent, but I don't see that being in my foreseeable future.

I have decided that I need to find an investor. I need someone to give me about $5000 so that I can buy the aforementioned tent, tables, display items, beads. Of course, part of that money would be for me to live on so that I could take some time off of work to doing some designing and making. =) If you have 5 grand laying around collecting dust, please let me know so that I can take it off your hands for you. I promise I will work really hard. ;-)

I feel like my blog is SO plain without any pictures to add. As much as I hate taking photos, I do love showing off my work.

Have a great night all!

2011 Wrap Up

2011-12-22T18:15:00.000-08:00

Ok -so I am a little early for New Year's, but I will go ahead and wish you a very Merry Christmas and bright and blessed 2012. I hope that it is a happy and prosperous year for us all! I am going to go ahead and give my wrap up for this year while I have the chance. =)

I did quite a few shows in Oct, Nov and Dec - a total of six which is the most I have ever done in that short amount of time. I have had some success with them and have several special orders that I am working my way through at this time. I love doing special orders - and I have figured out that at least 50% of my sales are special orders.

The success that I have had with my shows this fall has really given me a glimpse at the potential and possibilities for my business - and I am really excited at what I am seeing. For 2012, I am going to be looking at the possibilities of a retail environment as well as trying to get into larger shows. This means I will be spending lots of time working on inventory. I guess it is a good thing that I love doing it!

I am also thinking about trying to learn kumihimo. This is a ceremonial form of Japanese braiding that was useed by samurais to create cording for their swards and armor. It can used with or without beads and can use various fibers: silks, satins, wool, cotton, etc. I am always looking to learn something new, so this is an interesting prospect for me as well.

I've been having some photo software issues and hope to get that resolved at the beginning of 2012 (perhaps with income tax money). I may have some help with taking pictures as well (in the form of co-worker), so I am hoping that 2012 will also show a large increase in inventory to my shop. YAY!!!

For all of those you who have supported my business in one form or another - whether it be by buying, whether it be a word of encouragement, whether it be sharing my page or telling someone about me, I thank you from the bottom of my pea-pickin' heart. You make me happy with your encouragement in whatever form it comes. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Ten Years

2011-09-11T10:55:00.000-07:00

I debated on whether or not I was going to blog about the tenth anniversary of Sept 11th. After all, I was not directly impacted by the horrific events of 9/11 - I didn't lose loved ones, or friends, or co-workers, or even a casual acquaintance. But I can tell you that have absolutely no direct connection to those who died on Sept 11, 2001 really didn't matter - my life changed on that day. I had the presence of mind to know that my life would never be the same. How I wasn't sure, but I knew that it would be different.

I had just moved to Columbus out of my Dad's house and was officially on my own. Like NYC, it was a beautiful, gorgeous day there - kind of like it is here today. I was staying at his place to dog-sit as he was in Vegas and due to fly back home that day. My friend, April was staying with me to keep my company as I didn't like staying at his place by myself. April had gotten up before me and she woke me up - we sat and stared in dumb-founded astonishment at the tv. I remember feeling like I was going to hyper-ventilate when I saw the first tower go down. All those people so senselessly, tragically, brutally killed.

Many of you know I wear my heart on my sleeve. I am a crier (which I hate about myself, but have learned to accept). The events that unfolded that day made me sob with grief over the next few days and weeks. I am not a firefighter, or EMT or cop or military - mainly because I am a big chicken. I have often wondered about Flight 93 that went down in Shanksville, PA - would I have been brave enough to try to take back the flight knowing with absolute certainty that I would die? Would I have been willing to give up my own life bravely in order to save countless others? I'd like to think that I am capable of that kind of bravery.

The thing about 9/11 that is so striking is that it was not just an attack on US soil, it really was an attack on the world, with people killed from 115 countries. People from every walk of life, religion, sexual orientation, beliefs, nationality were murdered that day. And then something amazing happened - people came together. They stood in 2-3 hour long lines to donate blood - because like me - so many people felt so helpless and giving blood was the only thing they could do to feel useful. They gave money. They flew the American flag and sang the National Anthem with gusto in the days, weeks, months after the attacks. It was amazing to witness - and I wish that it is something that we could find as a country again. People were kinder and gentler with each other.

So as we remember today, let us not not forget the families left behind, the heroes of the day. Let us remember the kinder, gentler people we became and reflect on the fact that we became stronger, more resolved as a nation (even if it was only for a short time). Let us remember those that gave everything in the hope of helping or saving others.

Let us not forget....

The business end of things

2011-09-07T22:03:00.000-07:00

I was off of work today, so I decided to make good use of my time to get some pictures taken so I can list some items in my shops. It isn't too early to start thinking about Christmas.

That being said, I *hate* this part of the process. I hate taking pictures, I hate editing them, I hate trying to come up with a clever, witty description - or at least one that is clear on what you are actually purchasing. I wish that there was some magical way to have this part of the process taken care of. Perhaps some magical spell ("picture takeus") that would do all the work for me. (I have a vision in my head of something like Molly Weasley's magical knitting needles.) Would someone please invent that for me? (And while you are at it - would it be too much to ask for a transporter from Star Trek? I would love to actually meet some of my virtual friends.Thanks.)

So - I have spent the vast majority of the day today taking pictures, sorting, editing, cropping, writing, measuring and promoting - for 2 brand new listings in my store. For those of you who say "no big deal" - I want to tell you that it takes me anywhere from 45 minutes to one hour to create one listing - that's including everything from taking the picture, to actually hitting the "list" button. I am glad to have some new things to list, so I will just smile and pretend that I like this part of it. =)

I am done editing for the night as I do have a pretty decent headache. But I will have several more items to share with you tomorrow. =)

Holy cow!

2011-09-06T20:20:00.000-07:00

Many of you know that I am a cross-stitcher. I have stitched for many, many years now as my Mom taught me when I was very young. However, in recent years, my stitching has sadly fallen to the wayside in place of beading. I am making an honest effort to correct that now - and although I am not spending as much time stitching as I used too, I have found that I have missed it - and that it is time to make it a regular part of my life again.

So - for the first time in years - I actually have pictures to show you of my current WIP (that's work-in-progress for those of you who don't know). I am doing this as a SAL (stitch-a-long) with my dear friend, Julie. We started this on April 6th - the day before my birthday - and this is what I have done at this time. Julie is doing some crazy-ass rotation where she rotates projects every 2 weeks - and she has approximately 3,000 projects in this rotation. (OK - I was exaggerating a bit there - it's more like 300. Oh - all right - fine. It's really about 20.) Anyways - she currently has about 200 stitches in hers - mine has about 1600 in this picture. I am determined that she will not get ahead of me on this project. Even though she only works on it for 2 weeks at a time - she does not work, so she is able to devote a LOT of time over those 2 weeks to stitching. This design is called Storykeeper by Selena Fenech - and the pattern is made by Heaven and Earth Designs. You can see the project in it's entirety here

Isn't it cool? I am really loving this piece so far as you can really see it coming together already. HAED's get their detail from shading - not backstitch. So there are loads of colors changes, but you can really see the details in the piece already.

I will have another update fairly soon. I've already but in another 400 stitches since I took this picture before I started stitching yesterday.

So what do you think? Do you like it?

It's 3AM and I must be lonely...

2011-09-05T00:57:00.000-07:00

Bah - and now I will have that song stuck in my head. Why do I do these things to myself?

Actually - to comment on the title of the post, I am really not lonely. Just awake. Sadly, I have learned that though I have tried - and tried and tried - I will *never* be a morning person. Ever. I love the peace and quiet that night brings. Ansel is hopelessly a morning person. He does not understand how I can stay up half the night and I don't understand why he is so unbearably cheerful in the morning. Really - it is annoying, irritating and downright aggravating. Yesterday morning I got up at around 9:30 to use the bathroom - but I was half-asleep and headed back to bed, because 9:30 is still early to me (yes, yes I know this is sad). I can't remember the entire conversation because well - I was half-asleep but he said something, and I mouthed back - which I am prone to do. He started grumbling - which he does all too well - and said "I could have picked a nice quiet girl over here. 'Yes Ansel. Whatever you say Ansel' but NOOoooo I had to pick the one that was all talky because she was more entertaining. I could have had a nice, quiet peaceful life....but Noooooo." I started laughing - because he is so good at this type of thing.

Actually that brings to mind another story - many of you have heard this one because it is so daggone funny that I tell everyone that will stand still long enough to listen. About a year ago or so - I was putting laundry in the washing machine - Ansel was in clear eye shot of me. He asked me, "What are you doing?" Before I could think about it, I shot back "Vacuuming." He looked at me and said, "I don't know why I put up with you - 5'2" and 5' of you is mouth." Hehehe....

Some of you may wonder what the point of this post is. Really - there is not any reason for it other than I felt like blogging tonight - and sharing a little of myself.

Oh sure - I can tell you about the wonderful show I vended at last night. And how my friend, Jaime's band (Shadow Prophets) kicked some major ass. I could bitch and whine and moan that I had no sales, but then tell you I had a great time anyways. I could tell you how I banged my head until I gave myself a headache while rocking out to headlining act Tommy Peacock. I could also tell you that another local group (KLNZR) uses a hearse for transporting their equipment - and that you know at that point something fun is going to happen with that group. Or that being a witness to Fallen on High's wedding proposal was awesome.

I could also tell you that I am going to be taking some pictures of some new jewelry this week and hopefully getting pictures edited and listings made so that you can see some new items from me.

But I won't because really this blog entry is about giving you a glimpse into my life. =)

I have a winner!!!!

2011-08-31T22:41:00.000-07:00

I am so incredibly happy to announce that I have a winner for my contest! This was a really fun experience for me on so many levels. So many people were willing to share me on FB with their friends and family - or Tweet me on Twitter. And I had some really wonderful bloggy love as well. I want to tell you all "THANKS!!!" from the bottom of my little pea picking heart. It is SO hard to get your name out there - and the more people that see my shop, the better it is for me on so many levels.

Congrats to Kristi - she was kind enough to Tweet me several times. I only had 45 entries for my contest - so this improved her chances quite a bit. I will be sending her an email shortly and I will be posting what she chooses when she does.

Thanks again all for participating. I really do appreciate it. Although it will be a while before I do another giveaway, I will probably do this again in the future. =)

Unintentional Hero

2011-08-23T22:58:00.000-07:00

Once in a while, I will happen upon a story that makes me think that the human race is not completely doomed for failure. In today's world, where reality TV, news shows and the internet showcases the worst of the human race in all it's many forms, it is a welcome and refreshing change to hear about something, well - different.

Yesterday, I happened to see a news story on Yahoo about a photographer in Pennsylvania - about 4 hours away from where I live - who had the guts and the courage and the temerity to stand up for what she believes in - the things that she holds as right and true. Here is link to her story:

if you're ugly, I won't take your photo | indiana county, pa photographer | personal

Here is a self-employed woman - who only has herself to listen too. She decided that listening to her conscience was more important than money. And she took a HUGE risk by doing that. Wow. She refused paying customers because they were bullies - and being mean and hurtful to others on Facebook of all places - not exactly the most private forum in the world. I'd like to think that I would make the same decision if I were in her shoes, but the honest to goodness fact is that money is a powerful motivator in this day and age. Thank you Jen McKen for standing up for what you believe is right. I can only hope that one day, stories like yours will be the norm - and that what we have grown accustomed to in our current society (the hate, the deceit, the anger) will be the "unusual" story of the day. You have given quite a few people hope - and have become an unintentional hero for many, many people. May you have loads and loads of business - because it is truly deserved.

2 weeks left...

2011-08-19T20:37:00.000-07:00

Until my giveaway is over! I am terribly excited to have new followers here on my blog. I am not always the best at updating, but I have been getting better. =) This contest is open to everyone - international as well as domestic and here are the quick and easy rules:

I need your help promoting my shop: blog about me, share my shop on FB or tweet my shop and get an entry for each promotion into my drawing to win a free item from my shop. This is up to a $60 value - which only excludes 1 item at this time. Let me know so I don't miss you. I have decided to run this through the end of August - with the drawing on Sept 1st! So still plenty of time to improve your chances to win.

You can find me on FB @ Gems By Jules

On Twitter: GemsByJules

On ArtFire: http://www.gemsbyjules.artfire.com

On Etsy: http://www.gemsbyjules.etsy.com

I've been busy creating and making new items. Hexagons seem to have taken over my life for now although there are definitely some more skulls coming into my inventory. I am happy with the results so far. I always have new earrings and possibly some rings in the works as well right now. So lots of new items - just not enough hours in the day to get things beaded.

Speaking of skulls - here is a sneak peek of the necklace I have made up and ready to go (the picture is not the best quality - but it will do for now. I apologize that this is really not up to par for me - Ansel erased the program that I normally use to crop images and make them better - so no idea what I am doing with the current program.) I have gotten a lot of great comments on this necklace - including quite a lot of interest from men on this one. Not that they would actually buy one for themselves - but there has been a lot of studying and interest. =) I happen to think it is adorable.

I am off of here for tonight - I have developed a pounding headache in the meantime - thinking that the issue with the missing picture editing program and trying to learn a new program may have something to do with that. ;-)

Who wants a giveaway?

2011-08-03T15:05:00.000-07:00

You do? Really? Well, that is exactly what I am going to do. =)

After giving this some serious thought today, I have decided that it is high time that I give something back to everyone that has supported me over the years. So - here are the details:

Help promote me and my shop. Blog about my shop, like me on Facebook and share my shop with your friends on your page, follow me on Twitter and re-Tweet my shop. I will give you an entry into the drawing for each promotion you do. Simple. Easy. (I am limiting the number of chances per day to 5 to help make it fair for everyone.) I will close entries on August 25th and draw a name on Sept 1st. (Please note - if you blog about me - please let me know either through FB or Twitter so that I can give you an entry. I will see the shares on my Twitter and FB feeds - but unless I am following you I will not be able to know about blogs.) Also - if you are following me already - that's great and I love you for it! Just promote my shop to get an entry. ;-)

So what do you get if you win? The winner will get to choose from ANY item in my shop - up to a $60 value - which at this current time only excludes one item! YAY!!!

Here are the links to help you out:

To find me:

http://www.gemsbyjules.artfire.com - ArtFire Store
http://www.gemsbyjules.etsy.com - Etsy Store
on FB: Gems By Jules
on Twitter @GemsByJules

Good luck!

Things are a'changin'

2011-07-19T22:14:00.000-07:00

It's been some time since I posted and I have actually got some news to report. I am finding myself with a lot of upcoming opportunities - known and unknown. (I have some irons in the fire - but they are really nowhere near formation at this point.) Let me tell you what I have in the works...

At the end of June, I was contacted by a promoter through my ArtFire store. She was looking for jewelry designers to work in conjunction with fashion designers for Boston Fashion week. At first, I was very skeptical as I was pretty certain that this was a phishing attempt. So I started searching - and Googling and looking for anything and everything I could about this show, the event, the venue and sites. It this appears to be a completely legitimate offer. Sadly, I would not be able to raise the necessary funds to go by September, but I am truly flattered - and excited by this prospect.

A few days after this, one of my dear friends, Jaime, contacted me about a music and arts' festival called Sounds of Distinction. Now Jaime is in a band called Shadow Prophets and they were playing this event and theyneededvendorsandwouldIbeinterestedeventhoughitwasreallyshortnotice? So I contacted the gal - Natalie - and she kindly informed me that I would be welcome and that there were no booth fees and that I got keep ALL of my sales. Whoa. That's amazing. I went (it was July 9th) - and although I didn't sell as much as I would have liked, I really, really, really had a great time at the event. I heard some amazing local music talent - including Jaime's band. (By the way - if you like heavy metal/hard rock - I highly recommend them. Jaime is an amazing guitarist and vocalist.) I also got to see some great art - and I got a chance to meet new people and see an old friend. Best part? I have been invited to do another show with Natalie on Sept 3rd. And I am intensely excited about this as well. I never dreamed that I would end up working with a promoter.

This has in many respects opened some new doors for me - and I think it will continue to do so for me. I am looking forward to the opportunities that this may bring for me.

In addition I am looking to vend in more local events and shows. I am wanting to do more at this time with my jewelry and I think it is high time I get my butt in gear and start working on getting my name out there more. I am determined to be able to make a living off of this. I want to be the one in charge of my life. Not a work schedule. Not a boss. Not a manager. Me. Little ole' me.

Duuuude.....

2011-06-15T10:38:00.000-07:00

"Whoa. Duuuude. Dude."

It appears that I have won a blogging award! One of my blogger buddies, Sweet Seahorse nominated me for a blogger award. Apparently, she actually reads my blog - and even more importantly - likes it. ;-) I now have to share the bloggy love and pass this award along to 5 others whose blogs I enjoy reading.

Liebster Award

So in no particular order:

Julie and Yes Dear's Ravings

Contemporary Beadwork by Kerrie Slade

India Grace Designs

The Adventures of Baldy Locks

Wilde Jewels

I am quite pleased that someone actually enjoys reading my blog. I try to keep it entertaining when I do post - but I am not always sure that I achieve that. It's nice to know that there is at least person out there who enjoys reading my blog. =)

Now - just to figure out how to get some more followers....

Chuffed

2011-06-13T22:55:00.000-07:00

I am feeling a bit chuffed this evening. Chuffed you say? (And all my American friends are wondering what the hell chuffed is. Chuffed is a British way of saying that you pleased or proud. And it just so happens that I really like this word. =)) Yes - chuffed - and really not for myself, but for someone else that I hold dear to my heart.

Let me tell you a bit about my day. I traveled today to Cincinnati - a 2 hour drive - to visit with my dear friends Julie and Rosa. Julie lives in Cincy - but Rosa is here visiting from North Carolina. Now, one of the things that has made Rosa and Julie both special is the fact that I originally met them both online and have had the pleasure of meeting them in real life. I am often times amazed at how the internet has made the world a much smaller place. I have met people I would have never met otherwise because of the internet. In that respect, the internet has been a real blessing for me. I am lucky that Julie and Rosa consider me a friend and I am so happy that they are a part of my life. We spent the day talking, stitching, eating, laughing. For me - this is a great day and not something that I get to do often. It was a happy day.

And while we were at Julie's, another wonderful friend of ours popped onto messenger to let us know that 6 of her needlework designs are being carried by Nordic Needle here in the US. And this is why I am chuffed:

My friend Vicki is an absolute gem. She lives in the UK - and I would have never had the chance to know her if it was not for the internet. She is an uber-talented needlework designer and has struggled to get her name out there as a designer. (This is an incredibly hard thing - trust me, I know.) Nordic Needle is THE site to go too for specialty needlework. I am SO utterly pleased that she is finally getting some of the recognition she so richly deserves. Please check out India Grace Designs on Nordic Needle or to see her complete collection go here. Well done Vicki I am so proud of you (and chuffed too)! ;-)

Thoughts on Mother's Day

2011-05-06T16:06:00.000-07:00

I have been debating whether or not to write about my personal reflections on Mother's Day as I was not sure I wanted to share something so deeply personal for me. But after a great deal of thought and reflection, I have decided to blog in the hopes that it may help others out there.

As most of you know, I lost my own Mom 12 years ago to complications from diabetes and kidney failure. Mom and I were extremely close - about as close as a daughter and Mom can get. She was a joy to be around, had a gentle spirit and sense of humor. She loved her family, her friends, and God with a deep and undying passion. She was an amazing and talented artist and she shared those gifts with those that she loved. I have always said that I was truly and deeply blessed to have the Mom that I had - and in the grand scheme of things, 24 years was not nearly long enough to share with her.

As you can imagine, Mother's Day since then has been particularly difficult, and is compounded for me by another issue. When I was 19, I was diagnosed with PCOD which to make a long story short, means that I cannot have children. Oh, I could maybe, but it would involve thousands of dollars worth of fertilization treatments and as most of you know, money is NEVER something I have enough of. And of course there is the hassle, the pain, the agony of the fertilization treatments. Add to it that I am diabetic, and I have had to come with terms with the fact that children are something that will most likely never be a part of my future.

Over the years, I have endured the looks, the questions, the embarrassment of trying to explain to people why I don't have children. It is extremely painful to try to explain and often times, I am hiding tears while trying to explain "what is wrong with me." (And yes - I have been asked this question more than once.) Once when going through a particularly hard financial spot in my life, I was told by a co-worker (who had several children of her own) to "just have a kid" so that I could get government help - as if it was that easy...lol.

So Mother's Day often brings a huge plethora of emotions for me - but mainly it makes me sad - sad for what is missing in my life and sad for the fact that I will never hear the word "mom' meant for me.

This Mother's Day, I want all of you out there with children to hold them close, give them a kiss and be thankful for the blessing you received. If you are lucky enough to still have your Mom with you, then do the same. And if you see a childless woman, please think before asking what is wrong with her. It may not be by her choosing that she has no children.

Color My World

2011-05-04T16:08:00.000-07:00

I have been quietly working away on some pieces - a couple of new designs, and some of my classic patterns in new color ways will be coming out fairly soon. I am always looking for new inspiration and thought I would ask those of you out there what colors would you like to see me design in? What color combinations turn you on? What colors do you wear most? I would really love to hear some of your suggestions because it may give me a fresh perspective of some of my pieces.

Other than that, things have been pretty quiet around these parts. I found myself being quite interested in the Royal Wedding - at the last minute. I am not sure why as it was not something I was really interested in until it actually happened. Maybe it does speak to that small part of me that always dreamed of being a Princess. =)

And there is a large part of me that feels a little bit guilty for being happy at the news that Osama Bin Laden was dead. It really goes against my nature to feel happy upon hearing the news that someone died. But as one of my friends said on Facebook "However he died was too good for him." That pretty much sums it up for me.

Last but not least, I am wondering if my bank will approve me for a loan to buy gas and groceries? Here in central Ohio, gas is currently at $4.19/gal - and the cost of groceries has sky-rocketed in the past week.

It's a Small World...

2011-04-26T19:28:00.000-07:00

(do you have the awful song stuck in your head now???? Do ya, do ya, do ya???)

Sorry about that. Really, I didn't mean to do it, but I did it to myself so thought that I would share my pain with you. ;-)

I have to share with you a funny story - one of those "wow, that is really weird" kind of stories.

As many of you know, I work as a waitress. A couple of months ago, I started working at a breakfast bistro place here in town. I really like it a lot and it is the happiest I have been at a job in years. In the evenings, you will often find me in front of my computer plugging my shop online or on the couch in front of the tv, working on a new design or a special order.

A week or two ago, an old friend of mine (Tammy) contacted me and asked me to make my funky plaid bracelet in black, silver and gold. Of course I agreed - I love to make my designs in new color ways - so over the weekend, I worked it up and it turned out beautifully! I was thrilled with the end result. I finished it up last night, and let Tammy now that her piece was ready - and that I would be taking pictures of it today.

(Stick with me here - I promise that my apparent rambling will make sense by the end.)

This morning, I was getting ready for work - and decided to wear Tammy's piece in - because it was a really, really cool bracelet. Also - I will do this some times as a quality control measure - to make sure that my pieces will not fall apart easily. It also gives me a chance to look for any issues that may arise with it.

I went to work and had been there about 45 minutes, when 2 young ladies came in with a little girl. I greeted them at the door - and to my complete jaw-dropping astonishment, it was Tammy! Yes - the same Tammy that had ordered this bracelet. Yes - the same Tammy I had not seen in 20 years. Yes - that Tammy. She had no idea I worked there - this was simply a "we decided to go out for breakfast and we like to eat here" kind of thing. I am still in shock over this "small world" occurrence.

She was thrilled with the bracelet by the way - and took it home with her. Which means no pictures - but I will be making another one of these. =)

God works in mysterious ways.

Etsy, Etsy, Etsy...

2011-04-21T16:06:00.000-07:00

*shakes head in sadness*

Etsy - I used to love you. Yes - I may not have ever had a ton of sales through you, but I did in fact love and respect you and all that you used to represent. I told so many people about you and the great and unique items that could be found on your site. I told strangers about you. I loved you and cared for you. I met new and wonderful people through you. Then like a romance going bad, you started making little changes that show me that the end of our love story is coming. And it makes me sad, very, very sad.

I have not given up on our love just yet. Oh no. But be aware that I see the signs coming. You can still change back into the site I used to love, although my hope diminishes by the day. You keep making changes that cause hundreds if not thousands of vendors and buyers beg you to change, and you quite simply, ignore them. I do not want you to become another EBay or Facebook because you are Etsy - and that is indeed a grand and glorious thing!

In the past six months, I have seen you change the thriving forum community on Etsy into a fond memory. Oh sure - they are still there - but they are a fragment of what the community once was because YOU disbanded them. You forced people to join teams for the same things that they used to do in the forums - only we reached a much larger audience through the forums. By doing this, you have made it much harder for customers to actually be able to find us. (Not that it was ever easy to find us through Etsy - but the old forums did make it easier.)

Then there was the whole privacy debacle that occurred recently. What would EVER possess you automatically "opt in" everyone so that their information would be shared on the site??? Why would you think that this would be a good thing? Why did you not notify everyone of this change ahead of time??? Whoever thought that this was a good decision, needs a serious time out in the corner to think about what he has done. I don't need another Facebook in my life - one is enough.

And then there are the front page listings I have seen of late. The one that really made me upset - and made me realize that my unique, handmade, original jewelry designs mean nothing to you - was the listing for "sawdust"(http://www.etsy.com/listing/68853679/throw-sawdust-instead-of-rose-petals?ref=sr_gallery_1&ga_search_query=sawdust&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_facet=handmade). Yes - a listing for FRESH (because who wants stale) sawdust made it to the front page of Etsy. (You can throw it instead of rice at a wedding.) So for $2.99 + shipping and handling, you can own a 5x7" bag of sawdust. Now Etsy, I realize that I am MUCH more expensive than $2.99, but you know - I was really hurt by this betrayal. I put a lot more effort into my items than scooping some sawdust off the floor, so I do feel that I am worth more than $2.99 + s&h. And you felt that this was front page worthy??? Really. Well - that does make me feel pretty worthless to you - and makes me pretty darn angry.

I was thinking that maybe I would open another store called "Stuff in A Jar" or even "Sh*t in a Jar" and see what I could come up with that might be front page worthy. I have some dryer lint around here - I know I could get a jar or 2 of that pretty quickly. And I have some pretty unruly dust bunnies ("Just in time for Easter!") that I could wrangle up. (They are organic, free-range dust bunnies.) And I have plenty of dust around here as well. All of these would go nicely in a jar. I could even add glitter and sequins to them for that added touch.

Please Etsy, don't make me break up with you. I don't want too. Please don't make me. I want us to be happy and committed to each other and walk into the sunset hand-in-hand together. I want us to be "happily-ever-after." Please stop the suicidal mission that you seem to be on - one that is driving away vendors and buyers. We love what you once were...

What to do?

2011-03-26T17:45:00.000-07:00

Many times, I think about blogging - and then don't because I am not sure what to write. I try to keep my blog focused on my jewelery - with the occasional update about my life as I want my readers to get to know me. Plus - how boring would my blog be if every post was "Look at what I made!" or "Here's my newest creation!" I love making jewelery (don't get me wrong) but reading a blog like that would quite simply bore me.

Many of my fellow bead weaving artisans are very creative with their blogs. They talk about anything and everything and somehow relate it to their business or their designs. I struggle with this. I find inspiration from searching the web often times which is not exactly the most exciting topic of discussion. And so I am back to the question: "What to do?" or more exactly "I know I need to update my blog but I have absolutely no idea what to talk about."

And so we arrive here:

I am blogging a little about my life today. Not long ago, I posted about the tumult in my life and the uncertainty I was facing after losing my job. It took me a while, but I have found a new job as a server at a breakfast place. Now those of you who actually, personally know me will think that hell has indeed frozen over as I am *NOT* a morning person. Nope. No way. Snowball has a better chance in hell than me actually being a morning person. But here's the thing: I have been there several weeks so far - and I am truly liking it. I don't hate getting out of bed in the morning. I actually WANT to get out of bed in the morning - and the only time I have said that I didn't want to go into work was 1 morning in which I really, really, really wanted to go back to sleep. I am holding out hope that I may in fact become a morning person although I will be sad to put the "night owl" to rest so to speak. (I have always loved the peace and the quiet of the middle of the night.) I want to function on a "normal" schedule without it feeling like a drag.

On the jewelery front, the new job has given me more time to work on making jewelery. I am focusing more on my stores online. I have quite a few new designs coming, but the biggest problem I have is taking pictures. I simply hate doing it. The process has gotten easier, but I still hate doing it. I will share pictures with you once I get some more taken and of course when I have some new pieces to show you.

Last but not least, the new job has allowed me to spend more time with Ansel. I do enjoy his company a lot. At the old job, we were often like 2 ships passing in the night as he would be getting home from work and I would be going in - and by the time I got home he would be already asleep or close to it. Last week, we had the following exchange that I found really funny:

Ansel (after looking at my rather messy work uniform): "You are a mess. I could work all day and not get anything on me."
Me: "Well, not everyone can be perfect like you are, darling."
Ansel: "Now, now let's get this straight. I am ONLY perfect on Tuesdays and since today is Friday, you will just have to wait until Tuesday for perfection." =)

Good night all!

It's a fiesta!

2011-02-23T14:08:00.000-08:00

OK - maybe it is not really a fiesta - but my newest design certainly feels like a party! I am calling it my Day of the Dead inspired piece. I love the bright colors I chose for this one - and I am really pleased with how the little skulls turned out. The boy skull is wooing the girl - and since she is all puckered up for kiss, the flower he is holding in his mouth must have done the trick! =)

I also have pictures to show you of my Butterfly Dreams bracelet done with a yellow butterfly - it is certainly cheerful!

And last but not least, I have pictures of the art deco choker that I made. It turned out great! I need to find a wealthy rock star as I have decided that I need to make this one into a guitar strap.

Boil, boil, trouble and toil...

2011-02-10T18:26:00.000-08:00

Well, I am here. I managed to survive the holidays this year, but I was terribly glad to see them go. My grinch-like persona was magnified by this being the first holiday season without my Dad. Add to that being completely and totally broke - and well - it was a relief when it was over.

The last few months have been chaotic for me. I have struggled at work as I discovered that this was toxic environment to work in. It is hard to stay positive as a server when everything around you brings you down. It all came to a head last Friday night when I slipped and said a cuss word (mind you - away from my tables and no guests heard me) and a manager heard it. In my defense - I had worked 32 hours in 3 days and was pretty exhausted at that point - and was not pleased when I got sat another table that night (after already being there over 10 hours). Monday, I come to find myself without employment which is quite honestly stressing me out. I know I should not have said it - but I did and I cannot take it back. I felt terrible about it right away - and apologized quite a few times about it - but I am human and unfortunately it was a mistake. I have learned from it but hope that I will be able to find gainful employment quickly. However, I am firm in my belief that God does not close one window without opening another.

So, I find myself suddenly with quite a bit of free time on my hands in between searching for a job online and filling out applications. So I have been busy beading. Above I have shared with you the pictures of projects taken over the past few months - but were never posted here on my blog. There will be more pictures coming over the next few days/weeks as I have quite a bit more on my plate - and several patterns that are waiting to be beaded - not to mention all the projects that simply need to be completed. What can I say? I have completion issues. =)

And last but not least, today would have been my Dad's 65th birthday. I miss you so much - you are still my number 1 fan.

Been Kinda Quiet

2010-11-09T22:40:00.000-08:00

I just realized that I have been really quiet here lately. And there is a very good reason for that: I have been busy getting jewelery ready for a couple of shows that I did this fall. One is complete at this point and was a success. The other is coming up this weekend.

I have already done the "I am going to get all of this accomplished" list which starts out with the best of intentions and ends up turning into the "What the hell was I thinking I will never get all of this done by this weekend" list. I have managed to make quite a bit off of "the list," but will still fall far short of all of my goals. I guess this just means that I will have quite a bit to keep me going after this weekend.

Short post for me tonight - but wanted to at least let all know that I am still here and designing even if I am not completing everything as quickly as I would like. After I get past this weekend, I will be listing quite a few new items for my shop which I am excited about.

I'm back...

2010-09-29T15:52:00.001-07:00

Just like that proverbial bad penny that keeps turning up, I am back online after a nearly 3 week hiatus due to a nasty computer virus. In spite of feeling completely cut off from the rest of the world, I managed to use my time to create some new pieces. Both of these pieces are custom requests - and I must say that I am well-pleased with both of them.

The first piece is a cuff that I designed for my friend Emily. Her husband, Van and I are long time friends and he is currently care-taker for Shamrock Vineyard located in Waldo, Oh. She requested that I create something with a grape/wine theme - and this is my first attempt. Again - I am well pleased with the result - and hope that she will like it too.

The second one is pendant I created to go with the art deco cuff I created some time ago. Along with creating the pendant, I also made the 22" chain that you see on this piece. It has a gentle spiral to it - which adds a bit of class that I love. I only hope that my customer will be pleased with the end result. I had to learn how to make a triangle for this piece - along with learning a new stitch for the chain. I am always grateful for a new opportunity to learn new techniques that will help me expand my beading horizons.

Now that I am back online I will FINALLY be able to get some items listed to my shop. I may even be able to start getting some things listed tonight. YAY!!! I am happy to be able to have some new items to list - and my pictures are most definitely getting better.

Wish me luck with the camera tonight - I will most likely need it!

In the works....

2010-09-10T20:45:00.000-07:00

It's been a little while since I have blogged - but I wanted to share with you some of the projects I have going on right now.

First - I have started working with a fellow Ohioan on a bracelet she had featured on the tv show "Pretty Little Liars." The bracelets are all custom-made with the name of the person ordering - I am making the purple and white bracelets shown. I have literally dreamed about purple and white beads - and I am sure that it will not be the last dream about those.

I decided to take a break from the PLL bracelets - and have been working on an art deco necklace - to match the cuff shown. This was a special request from a customer who bought this cuff - and I am happy with what I have created. Just finishing it up at this point. (Pictures coming soon....)

I have also gotten a special request to create a grape/wine themed bracelet and/or necklace for Emily. Her husband, Van and I are old friends. They are now the care-takers for Shamrock Vineyard located in Waldo, OH. I may be designing some wine charms and other jewelery to sell at the vineyard - I am very excited about that prospect as well. I have already got one design planned out for Emily - just need to bead it up.

I have also designed a gothic cross - I love the look of this one on paper - I can't wait to see it beaded up and "in person."

Last but not least, I am also planning a cancer memorial bracelet in memory of my Dad. I am working with The Sam Bish Foundation - and plan to donate proceeds from my sales to this organization. More will come on this as plans get more finalized.

As you can see, I am keeping myself busy. I am still working as a waitress as my "real" job - and beading really has been taking up nearly all my free time as of late. I guess it is a good thing that I love doing it.

Updates and pictures will be coming soon - I do have a lot on my plate right now - so expect a lot of new things coming from me in the very near future.

Butterflies and Doggies, oh my...

2010-08-24T18:46:00.000-07:00

Hard as it may be to believe - hell has not frozen over. Although the simple fact that I have blogged twice in less than a week may make some of you wonder about that.

This design was inspired by a piece of tattoo clip art. I am really pleased with the end product although I discovered that I unknowingly have created an optical illusion. Last week, when I was visiting my cousin, Cheryl, her daughter Caylee was quite interested in my jewelery. She examined all of the pieces - and she really liked this one. She said to me "I really like the pink doggie." At first - I thought I mis-heard her - but then she said it again. And I said "The pink doggie??" And she said "Yes - that's a pink doggie." Now I thought I had designed a butterfly, but after looking at it a bit closer, I do indeed see the pink doggie. It's funny how a 6 year old can offer a fresh perspective on a piece of jewelery. Do you see the pink doggie???

I am currently working on another art deco cuff. I have created a pendant to go with it and I am very excited about that. As soon as the cuff is done, I will be beading it up - and then I will be creating another art deco cuff - but will be using different colors this time around. I want to see that one in something a bit different.

I have really been trying to bead a bit more lately, so have been making an effort to stay OFF the computer. I seem to always get sucked into the computer and the next thing I know an entire day has gone by - and I have gotten nothing accomplished. Now if only someone would put more hours in the day, I would be very happy.

And last but not least, for the first time in a really, really long time, I am feeling hopeful. I am not sure what has prompted this - but I actually feel like good things are around the corner for me. I hope that those feelings are right for once, as this is a nice change - and one that I would like to keep around.

Moving On

2010-08-18T22:04:00.000-07:00

I did my last post 6 months ago today. The weather was fiercely cold, snowy, windy. And my Dad had just died....my number 1 fan. Many of you know that my parents were the world to me, so losing Dad was exceptionally hard for me to deal with.

To my family and friends - I want to say "thank you" for the overwhelming love, support, caring and concern that I have received over the past 6 months (and am continuing to receive). You have all made me feel so loved, so welcome in your lives, your homes, your families. Whether you are a long-lost childhood friend - or someone I know merely "on-line" please know that I take every kindness to heart where it will stay with me for the rest of my life.

Fast forward to today. Beautiful, sunny and warm - a truly perfect day. I have shed many tears over the last few months - and although the grieving process continues, I have decided that it has time to move on - and try to get back to some normalcy in my life.

That being said, I have still been doing some beading in the recent months as it takes my mind off what is missing in my life. I have some new pieces to show - and needed to get pictures taken of some of the older items in my collection that either had not so great pictures - or just never had pictures taken to begin with which leads me to today...

I spent a simply lovely day with my cousin Cheryl - and her 2 beautiful daughters. Caylee - who is 6 - talked my ear off. (I think she and I will be good friends.) Mia - who is 3 - spent the day trying to get over her shyness - however I did get her approval to come back for another visit so I will give that "2 big thumbs up."

I discovered that Cheryl inherited our grandpa's love of photography. Really - she comes by it naturally. One of my memories of him was that he always had that camera close at hand - just in case there was a flower, sunset, or fruit that needed it's picture taken. This discovery thrilled me to no end - because unlike Cheryl and Grandpa - I *hate* taking pictures of my jewelery. Really - I despise it - loathe it even. It is the bane of my jewelery-making existence. Cheryl, however, got rather geeked about it - and proceeded to spend the vast majority of the afternoon and evening shooting pictures. (YAY for both of us!!!) Soooo - without further ado here are some pictures of what I have been making.

Stay tuned - much more to come. I have quite a few projects in progress right now - including an entirely new adventure with a dear friend of mine that I hope will do well. (It is something that I am fairly sure most of you have not seen before.)

My number 1 fan...

2010-02-19T18:59:00.000-08:00

It is with deep and profound sadness and over-whelming sense of loss that I announce the passing of my dear, sweet, beloved Dad, Paul Meister. (http://www.snyderfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/obit_view.phtml?id=9281)

Dad - I will miss you so VERY much - I will always love you and know that a day will not go by that I won't think about you or Mom. I know that you are with her again - and sharing quite a few laughs together. I know just how much you missed her after she passed - your grief for her was painful to watch.

I am so happy that you were able to find love again later in life as I know that you just had so much love to give that once just wasn't enough.

This picture was taken Jan 3rd, 2010 at Alaina's 1st birthday.

Dad was simply the best - the best man, the best Dad, the best husband, the best friend. Your wonderful sense of humor endeared you to everyone who met you. Then they discovered you were a fierce, loyal friend - and you had a virtual army of people who LOVED you - not just liked you - loved you.

You fought a good fight - and rallied after so many setbacks. Your strength was an inspiration to so many.

Five years ago, I began making jewelery and Dad was very supportive from the get-go. He actually bought me a computer so that I could sell my wares on-line. I set up my shop on Etsy, and waited patiently for something (anything) to happen. Then one day - I got a heart. I called him because I was so excited to actually have a heart. Here is the conversation:

Me: "Dad - I got a heart!!!"
Dad: "What's a heart?"
Me: "Ummm - well it's someone who likes your shop enough to save it to their favorite places to visit. Oh - Like a fan!!!!"
Dad:" Well - can't I be your number 1 and first fan?"
Me: "Yes - always."

After that Dad was always my number 1 fan - even though I knew that he always had been. I have simply lost my number 1 fan, my best friend, my Dad. I would tell you I love you 100 times a day every day of I could - but I will just say that I will miss you more than anything and that I love you even more.

And to all a good night....

2009-12-20T19:03:00.000-08:00

First of all - I want to start by wishing anyone out there a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. I hope that it is a blessed one for all those who follow me (and their families too)!

I have been so neglectful of my blog in recent months. Things have just been crazy which is fairly normal for me. Let me provide you with some updates.

As you can see by the date on this picture - this is a fairly recent picture of our little Alaina - she continues to do pretty well. She is still having to be fed through a feeding tube - but she is such a sweet and good baby. Smiles all the time. She is learning to wave and has learned to shake her head no (and knows what that means...lol.) She is also sitting up on her own pretty well. She will be 1 on January 3rd - I can hardly believe it!

Dad has spent some time in the hospital recently - due to an infection in his port-a-cath. He is doing pretty well all things considered. The good news there is that his cancer counts are getting better. YAY!!!!

I am working 2 jobs now - both of them waitressing. I like it for the most part although it can be terribly frustrating at times. But you do what you have to do - right?

This week, I finally decided to take the plunge and join Facebook. Please feel free to add me to your friends if you are so inclined. I have had a grand time finding my old friends - I have discovered I know a lot of people on there. I have had a ball catching up with them. If all goes well - I will be having lunch with a couple of them this week - I've not seen them in 10 years or so. (And for the record this has completely made my week as they are near and dear to my heart.) I also received a special call from a friend who lives in Canada tonight - we killed my phone as we hadn't talked in about 3 years. It was wonderful to talk to her - only thing that would be better would be to see her in person.

As for the jewelery - I have been working on making new items to add to my shop. My Etsy store is sadly empty now - I have a goal of 100 pieces for my inventory so that I can start adding new items to my shop on a daily basis. Look for these items (and perhaps some sneak peeks here) in the next few months. Pictures remain a challenge for me - so my goal is to make or buy a light box/tent to help with my picture quality. I have learned several new stitches and I am excited to show what I have made!

Take care all - I miss hearing from you all. Take the time to leave a comment if you like. I am always, ALWAYS happy to hear from you!

Update...

2009-06-23T10:29:00.000-07:00

Hello all,

I do have an update to share on my Dad - and on my little niece Alaina.

Dad was transported down to Riverside yesterday - which is here in Columbus. Riverside is a HUGE hospital here in town and they specialize in cardiac care. Dad will be having open heart surgery hopefully before the week is out. I do not have a date or time for it yet as he has popped a fever and they will need to treat that first before they do surgery. His dialysis schedule may also affect when he has surgery as well.

Alaina will also be having surgery this week to put a feeding tube in place so that she can come home from the hospital for good. Colette and Sherman are literally going from one hospital to the next right now - so they are under a great deal of stress.

I want to thank everyone who has sent prayers, good thoughts and vibes our way. If you have left a comment here on my blog - or through one of my Yahoo groups, I thank you. I have read each and every one of them but simply have not had either the time or energy to reply. Just know that I have read them all - and the outpouring of love I have received has been truly overwhelming. Please keep those prayers and good thoughts coming as we do need them.

Family Emergency

2009-06-16T23:07:00.000-07:00

I will keep this brief, but here we go again...

I need prayers, good thoughts, vibes from all of you yet again. My Dad suffered a heart attack today and although he is stable, he will be having surgery sometime soon. I do not have a date - or know what kind of surgery that he will be having at this point as they have not yet determined the extent of the damage.

He is not a great candidate for surgery right now because of all of his other medical issues. For those of you who don't know - he has multiple myleoma - A bone marrow cancer that manifests itself by destroying the kidneys. So in addition to chemo, he is on dialysis. He also has a colostemy which is a result of another condition called diverticulitis.

I love my Dad as much as any child can love a parent. We are very close. His good, sweet nature and oddball sense of humor truly endear him to everyone he meets. Seriously - nearly everyone in my hometown knows my Dad - and when they hear I am his daughter, the first words I hear, are "Oh - your Paul's daughter. I just LOVE him." Or "He's a great guy - truly one of a kind." I thank God every single day for him - and sometimes I have wondered how I got so lucky to have him as my Dad.

I will be posting updates as I have more information. I am off to bed shortly as it was a very long day at the hospital - and I know that there will be several more of them ahead.

Thanks for any prayers, thoughts, good wishes, vibes you care to send our way.

Time for the Juleseys again...

2009-06-09T21:23:00.000-07:00

Wow - Two posts in one day - what IS the world coming too??? The EBW team has been up to being fabulous again as it is time for their monthly challenge. The theme for this month was HUMOR and there were some absolutely hysterical entries.

So - without further ado here are my monthly awards - otherwise known as the Juleseys:

Best use of toilet paper: Curiosity Killed the Toilet Paper by Licia Beads. Anyone who has ever owned a cat can totally relate to this piece.

Best story line: Punch-Line Bracelet by Francesca's Fancy. Who ever said you have to have words to get your point across???

Best reason to go to court: Jolly Jester by ArtfulAr. No, no - not the court that you go to for a speeding ticket.

Best immoratilization of a weed: WEED by Haute Ice Beadwork. Don't think you can blow this dandelion in the wind.

Best reason to move to a new location: HOUSE for RENT with Garden View by Enchanted Beads. If the spiders in my house were this pretty, I probably wouldn't be scared of them.

As always, the Juleseys are a fun way for me to promote the fabulous bead work that is constantly being created by this team. If you were not chosen - there is always next month!

If you have not already voted - please go to the EBW blog to cast your vote!!! Voting ends on June 15th at midnight - so hurry!!

Introducing our little Alaina

2009-06-09T20:07:00.000-07:00

Howdy all - this is a long overdue post as is normal for me nowadays. Many of you will remember requests for prayers that I sent out a few months ago for our little Alaina. And here she is in all of her adorable glory. (This picture was taen in April - but it has taken me this long to figure out how to post her picture to my blog.)

Now seriously - isn't that one of the cutest baby pictures you have ever seen???? I know I am her biased Aunt, but if you look at this picture and don't go "Awwwww" something is seriously wrong with you ;-).

Here is her update - she is currently around 7 pounds. She came home from the hospital for a couple of weeks in April - and had to go back into the hospital where she still is at this time. She is not eating very well at this point - so she has to have a feeding tube to keep her going. The docs can't quite figure out what is going with her - we do know that she has terrible acid reflux. She is doing very well otherwise with all things considered.

For all of you that send prayers, good vibes and well wishes to us - I thank you from the bottom of my heart. I believe that all of those wonderful things that you did for us helped her get to where she is. As you can see - she is a little fighter and has done well with the overwhelming odds that were stacked against her from the get-go. Please keep them coming that the doctors can figure out why she is not eating so they can fix it - so she can come home for good!!!

And the award(s) go too....

2009-03-13T20:38:00.000-07:00

Howdy everyone!!! It is back to business as usual for me. Well - sorta. I have been working an ungodly amount of hours for Steak and Shake which has left me little time for creativity. I did manage to re-list my art deco cuff today which makes me happy. I really love this piece and I am glad that I can remake it again. I think the next time I make it, a new color scheme will be in order though.

Anyways, I am back to blogging about my business again and it is time once again for you to vote in the Etsy Beadweavers monthly challenge. For February, the theme was "Temptation" and as you will see it was an absolutely delicious theme.

And so with that being said, I think that I am long over due to award the Juleseys again!!! So - without further ado, this month's winner's are:

Best use of a racy focal piece: Erthfae for her stunning Moonlit Seductress. Skinny dipping anyone?
Best reason to become a gambler: Pushing Luck by Caraway. Seriously - I want to find an old time call girl outfit to go with this necklace.
Best reason to collect itsy, bitsy, tiny things: A Case for Temptation by Licia Beads. This box makes me want to find small sparkly things to put in it.
Best use of icky things: The Spider and the Fly by daynamiles. Personal note here: I *hate* bugs - so thus the name of the award - this necklace is absolutely fabulous.
Best focal piece: Mist on the Moor by Beagle Beads. I am absolutely jealous of this focal piece. It makes me want to be actually sucked into the bead to see where it goes.

As always, the Juleseys are simply a fun way for me to showcase some of the stupendous talent on the Etsy Bead Weaver's Team. Don't feel bad if you have not been chosen - I am not creative enough to come up with something witty for all of the gorgeous entries - hehe.

So - if you have not taken the time to vote - please visit the Etsy Bead Weavers blog before midnight March 15th to cast your vote.

Now - on to a couple of personal notes here:

I was finally able to go see my absolutely gorgeous little step-niece Alaina for the first time tonight. (Yes, I am biased - but she *is* gorgeous - don't care what you say - hehe.) She is up to a whopping 4 lbs 11 ounces now and there is talk of letting her come home soon. Her big hurdle now is getting used to the bottle. Once we can get her on regular bottle feedings, she will get to come home. I got to hold her which was very exciting for me. I was 4 lbs 13 ounces when I was born so I got to see just how tiny I was. I am trying to figure out how to upload some pictures to my blog so that everyone can see her - for some reason the pictures I were sent in an email won't save to my computer.

The other big news in my life is that I finally have a car!!!!!!! I didn't realize how much not having a car had impacted my life - but it is almost like I have a new lease on life. It is nothing fancy - and that is fine by me - I am not a fancy girl. (OK - now I have "Fancy" by Reba McIntire running through my head. Great song.) And for those of you who need details - it is a white, 2004 Hyndai Accent 2 door. Cute car that I have nicknamed Betty. It had 41,000+ on it when I got it a month ago and is still under mactufacturer warranty.

I can slowly see the haze of depression lifting from my life as I hope to be able to find a better job with benefits now that I can actually get to a job without the bus. Plus this will open a whole new avenue for my business as I am no longer limited to what shows I can do since transportation is no longer an issue. I can work on making a better display for shows which makes me happy as well. And I have more time now - which has been eaten up by work lately - but at least I can use my time for better things other than waiting on a bus...

So - what has everyone out there been up too? I am out of the loop and would love if you took the time to comment on my blog and tell me how you have been....

Alaina update #763

2009-02-02T18:01:00.000-08:00

I posted this update to my Yahoo groups a little while ago - and decided to add it here as well so that everyone could see my update:

Hello again everyone...

Just checking in with an update on our little fighter Alaina...

She had her surgery on Friday - was originally supposed to be on Thursday but the surgeon got tied up with another case. The operation went well - and she is doing well. My Dad and stepmom went to go see her on Saturday and when they got there, she was surrounded by a whole crew of people. Dad said to Coleen (my step-mom) "Uh-oh this isn't good." Turns out she had managed to pull her respirator tube out. The docs were caught off guard as they said that they had not seen a a baby this little be this active especially after surgery. I am surprised that she had the strength to pull it out. Sooo - they have put her back on the ventilator and have restrained her a bit so that she doesn't pull that stunt again...lol.

She has gained 10 ounces this week putting her to 2 pounds, 11 ounces - not sure if this is good or bad either as she is not eating - only on IVs at this point so I am concerned that this might be fluid. I have faith that the doctors will watch for this though.

So - everything is going well for her at this point. I want you all to know that I have read each and every response that I have gotten to my posts - but time and energy have not allowed me a personal reply to them all. It is so deeply touching to me that people from all over the world are thinking about, praying for, sending good vibes, lighting candles for little Alaina. So - thank you all from the bottom of my heart for the out-pouring of love and light that you have shared with me and my family. We ALL appreciate it!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you.

I think her Mom and Dad are going to have their hands full with her as she is already quite determined and dare I say, stubborn...lol.

Thank you once again - much love to all of you.

Stressing out...

2009-01-28T10:31:00.000-08:00

Just giving a quick update on my preemie step-niece Alaina....

She is due to have open-heart surgery tomorrow at Nationwide Children's Hospital here in town. This is the best place for her at this time as they have some of the best specialists in the nation. That being said however, things are not looking so good for her at this point. She has fluid in her chest cavity that is moving from her heart to her lungs, the valves in her heart are not closing properly and her heart is enlarged. Due to her size (she weighs 2 pounds and 1 ounce at this time) and heart conditions, she is a poor risk for surgery at best.

So today, I will be doing a great deal of praying and talking to God and most likely, crying. If you could send prayers, good thoughts, vibes, light a candle - whatever you can - our way, well just know that it will be deeply and truly appreciated, even if I can't thank you personally.

I pray that our little angel has the strength to make it through this. She has fought to make it this far, so I have hope that she will continue to be our little fighter.

Sit back and relax...

2009-01-22T20:00:00.000-08:00

It's been ages since I have posted and there are many reasons for that. So grab a cuppa whatever you like and perhaps a snack as this will be a lengthy post....

The holidays were hectic for me as I was working 2 jobs. I was working 40-60 hours a week which left me exhausted in and of itself. It was stressful - but I was making the money that I need.

The Friday before Thanksgiving I finally had a successful show. This was a small venue that took place at my Dad's work. He works in a hospital and they have an annual craft show for the employees and their relatives. I had a steady stream of traffic by my table all day - and I can honestly say that I will be doing this show again next year as it was worth my time and energy to do it. Would I have liked to sell more? Sure - but I did have some sales and I was pleased by the end of the day.

During this time, I also had some sales to some of my co-workers at Longhorn. So business was pretty good for me in December.

The same day as the craft show, my step-sister went into OSU as she was having problems with her pregnancy. I ended up staying at her house, dog and house-sitting for them as she was in the hospital for the next 7 weeks. I had use of her truck which was wonderful - and it great having the company of a canine again. Their dog Petey is a sweet and wonderful dog - so it was a real treat watching him.

Colette had a long stay in the hospital and finally, on Jan 3rd, our little girl, Alaina Renee, decided she wanted to come see what the fuss was about even though she was nearly 3 months early. Oddly, my other step-sister's birthday is Jan 3rd - so that was quite a birthday gift!!! Alaina weighed only 1 lb 12 ounces when she was born and was only 12 inches long, but all things considered, she is doing well. Today she actually made it to 2 lbs and 1/2ounce (hey when you are that tiny every little bit helps). She does have a hole in her heart which I guess is common for babies that are this premature. The doctors hope that it will close on it's own, but they are going to give it some time first.

So - I was working 2 jobs until this past weekend - Saturday I got a call not to come into work and that they had closed the Longhorn location that I had worked at permanently. I had heard rumors that they were closing the place 2 weeks after I began working there, so I was not really surprised. I actually got the second job at Steak and Shake because I had heard this rumor - figured it was better to have something else to fall back on if they did close unexpectedly. It's all worked out for the better though - I make better money at Steak and Shake and I like it more.

So after several months of craziness, I am now back at home and working only 1 job again. I am not quite sure what to do with myself. I am looking forward to getting back to my stitching and beading again although I did find a bit of time for myself to work on those things even with all the chaos in my life as of late. Of course, when I came back home, I had to give up use of the truck and it has been really hard getting used to riding the bus again. It eats a great deal of time out of my day. Hopefully, I will have some new pictures to post soon.

And last but not least, they have started my Dad on IV chemo. He had his first treatment on Jan 6th and so far has tolerated it well. Other than being extremely fatigued, he has not really had any side effects (knock on wood that it stays that way). If I had my choice between hair loss, nausea, vomiting, or fatigue, I would take the fatigue any day.

Ok - so that is all in my little bit of the world. I keep saying that I hope to be able to post more often, but this time I hope I can actually stick to it!

Wow - It's been a month and...

2008-10-14T17:55:00.000-07:00

Holy cow!!! It's been over a month since I have blogged and so much has happened in that time! I want to start with first things first though and blog about the monthly challenge for the Etsy Bead Weavers Group. I normally put in plug before this time - but have been so busy that I have not had a chance to do so to this point (more on that later).

Anyways, for winning the art deco challenge with this bracelet, I was allowed to choose the theme for September's challenge. I chose the theme of "Animal Instincts" as I thought that this was a fun theme - that could go so many directions. Obviously, there is the obvious animal themed pieces - and then I thought that you could also go with whatever brings out the animal instincts in you? In other words, what's your passion? I have a peyote stitched cuff halfway designed for this challenge but knew I would not be able to get the beads for this in time - so you will just have to wait to see this finished piece.

Once again my fellow Etsy Bead Weavers did NOT disappoint. The pieces are unique, interesting and most definitely show those animal instincts coming through. And so - without further delay, it is time once again for the monthly Juleseys. (Thank you to Susan of Dream Bead Weaver Designs for suggesting the name of my awards....it gave me a wonderful chuckle.)

Best use of teeth: This stunning cuff by The Beaded Lily
Best use of feathers: This spectacular necklace by Beads and Blooms
Best clasp: This fun bracelet by Smadar's Treasure
Best fishy theme: This gorgeous purple bracelet by Enchanted Beads
And last but not least:
Best Halloween piece - that also can double for an entry into the challenge: this necklace by Spring Colors.

Here is my disclaimer on these awards - these are entirely for fun and are of my own design and choosing. If you are not chosen, I mean you no harm - just ran out of ideas...lol.

Ok - so now for some personal updates from my neck of the woods.

I have started a new job at Longhorn Restaurant. I started there on 09/25 and so far I like it although it is entirely different from anything that I have done before. I have never worked in the food industry before - and I have discovered new muscles that I never knew I had as I can hardly move by the time I get home at night. I am not used to working 8-12 hours with no breaks or lunches. However, the money is better - and for that I am grateful.

So things are going well there - and then I find out Sunday that they are closing this restaurant in December. So I will be looking at the end of this month again for another job - the one big plus for me on this was the fact that it is walking distance of my house. With no car, this was saving me a ton of time on the bus. I will put in applications again with all of the restaurants in the area and perhaps I will be lucky enough not to have to start riding the bus again.

My stepsister is doing well with her pregnancy - she had a procedure done called shrod khar (I believe this is the spelling) where they sew the cervix shut. She is at 14 weeks at this point - so if you could all keep sending those good thoughts, prayers and vibes our way, I would really appreciate it.

I've not had much time - or energy - to do any beading. I have been doing some cross-stitching here and there for Rosa's baby project - the baby is here now so I have to get moving on it!

That's about all from here! Hopefully I will be able to get some more posting done this month!

Well - It's that time again!

2008-09-09T22:37:00.000-07:00

It is time once again to vote for the monthly challenge with the Etsy Beadweavers group! The challenge this month was "Complimentary Contradictions" and after much thought - I came up with nothing....lol. So no entry from me this month. However the choices are once again fabulous and so here are my awards for this month:

Best use of flowers: This adorable bracelet by Grandma Marilyn.
Best use of wooden rings: This wonderful bracelet by These Precious Things.
Best use of rhinestones: This fabulous cuff by Cigar Box Beads.
Best use of circles and squares: Ok - so I couldn't pick just 1 as there are 2 amazing winners for this one:
This stunning necklace by Dream Bead Weaver and this fabulous necklace by Beader Jojo.

Last but not least I am giving out an award that I never DREAMED I would be giving out....but the best use of a potholder (yes, you read that right) goes to Vanishing Pearl for her whimsical potholder.

These awards are of my own design and choosing. If I did not include you - I mean no offense - these are simply for fun and to share some of the amazing talent seen on this group.

Since I was the winner of the art deco challenge for August, I was given the honor of choosing the theme for October. I have chosen the theme of "Animal Instincts." I cannot WAIT to see what this talented group comes up with for this challenge!

Please take a few moments to go check out the entries for this month's challenge and see what we have been creating!!!

Absolutely nothing to do with beading....

2008-08-25T20:57:00.000-07:00

I just got off the phone with my Dad a little while ago and I have some wonderful news to report. My stepsister is pregnant! This is just a happy spot that we needed in our lives with all the health issues that my Dad has.

We are all completely over the moon about this, but it is also terrifying as my stepsister has PCOD (poly-cystic ovarian disease) which makes her a terribly high risk for pregnancy. She has already been referred to a high-risk pregnancy specialist as she is also 36 and a type 2 diabetic. So - any of you reading this - if you could please say a prayer for us, or send good vibes/thoughts our way - anything really - we would all appreciate it! More than a lot of people I know, Colette (my stepsister) deserves to be a Mommy. She is wonderful with children and had given up on that possibility of becoming a Mom.

We have no idea how far along she is - but I will give updates as I get them! I have been fighting back happy tears since I talked to my Dad. I just pray that all goes well.

I won!!!

2008-08-21T12:02:00.001-07:00

This is a terribly late entry - I should have added this days ago, but wanted to share with everyone my joy as I won the Art Deco Challenge for the monthly challenge for the Etsy Bead Weavers team. I am so excited and surprised as this was my first entry and this cuff caused me a lot of lost sleep and stress! I almost did not get it finished in time to enter the challenge!

Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote. Your kind comments and compliments about this bracelet make me feel so loved. I feel very honored to have won among such stiff competition! There are always so many fabulous entries and I am often in awe of the competition or entries.

Unless inspiration strikes me soon - I don't believe I will be entering this month's challenge of complimentary contradictions. I just seem to be drawing a huge blank on this one.

On a personal note, I have been having minor issues with my left eye that I believe is being caused by allergies - so I have not been on the computer very much.

Confessions of an Olympic Junkie....

2008-08-14T22:22:00.000-07:00

Ok - so I admit it - I am truly an Olympics junkie. That's the first step to recovery, right??? Only thing is that I don't want to recover from this particular habit.

I love, love, *LOVE* the Olympics. I am the person that will lose sleep watching the drama as it unfolds. I root for team USA - but I also love those underdogs that have no hope of winning (think Eddie the Eagle here). I especially love those melodramatic stories of athletes over coming all the odds to even be at the Games. It doesn't matter to me if they are medal contenders or not - I still admire the resolve and strength that it took to get where they are.

So I have come up with some ways to determine if you are an Olympics junkie:

Do you find yourself doing any of the following???

- Crying when your team wins a gold? Or when a hard luck story - even from another country - wins a medal - any medal?
- Humming the Olympic or national anthem? (Did this one as I was getting ready for work the other morning)
- Watching some ridiculously mundane sport - such as curling - at 3 am because you just cannot turn the tv off? (Resulting in much lost sleep...)
- Daydreaming at work of being able to go home and watch 4 hours of events?

I have found myself doing all of these at some point in my life. I am not a sports fanatic - in fact I really don't follow too much in the way of sports. But there is something about the Olympics that just draws me in and captivates me.

I have to comment on 2 things so far with the US:

Michael Phelps is just sick when it comes to swimming. I am not sure that I will ever see this level of athleticism again in my lifetime. *GO MICHAEL GO!!!!!!!!* I hope you do get all of those 8 gold medals - you deserve every one of them. Truly one of the greatest athletes of all time. (And that 4x100 medley relay that we swam and won on Sunday night was probably the best swimming race I have ever seen - GO TEAM USA!!!!!!!!!!)

I also have to say that the men's team gymnastics was truly heart warming for me. The way those guys reacted - you would have never known that they had not won a gold. I don't think I have ever seen a team SO happy to receive a bronze and I just got the warm fuzzies watching them celebrate. Thank you guys for not giving up - you did a wonderful job - and have that bronze medal to show for it. Congratulations!

So - I am off to watch the really late night stuff now....I will say that this has been good for my productivity as I am working on making things as I am watching the Games.

First Challenge Entry

2008-08-07T17:26:00.000-07:00

So after much pain and frustration, and many, many hours of ripping out, my art deco piece is finally completed and up on the Etsy Bead Weavers team blog. Here it is in all of it's glory - let me know your thoughts. (This bracelet was called many not so nice names while I was making it...lol.)

As always, there are many, many beautiful entries in the challenge this month and just for fun, I thought that I would hand out some awards of my own creation. (If I don't pick you it's not that I don't like your piece, but that I ran out of ideas for awards...lol.)

Best use of an Egyptian art deco motif - This Pendant by Bead Mummy
Best use of black and white - This bracelet by Beads and Blooms
Best use of circles - This necklace by Triz
Best free form piece - This bracelet by Euphoria Moon Designs
Best use of windows - This bracelet by Adina Halpern Designs

These are just a few of the fabulous entries for this month's challenge - please visit the Etsy Bead Weavers blog to see the rest of the wonderful entries there. Voting for the challenge begins August 9th! Please vote! (My entry is number 26 - cough, cough, hint, hint...)

Did you ever???

2008-08-02T17:58:00.000-07:00

Sooo - I am working away on my challenge piece for the Etsy Bead Weavers challenge for this month. The theme is art deco and after researching quite a bit on the web, I was able to draw some inspiration for this theme and used my brand new Bead Tool pattern maker to design a peyote stitch cuff for this challenge.

Anyways - did you ever try to make something that just did NOT want to be made? I swear that this bracelet has a mind of its own and just does not want to be created. I have done nothing but rip out - get one row done, rip out 2, put that one back in, rip it back out....sheesh. It is getting really frustrating as I would have had it done long ago, if I hadn't lost so much time ripping out.

It is almost half way done at this point and with any luck I may have it done tonight or tomorrow. The deadline for this entry is August 5, so hopefully I will make it. Wish me luck!

Help!

2008-07-19T19:35:00.000-07:00

"I need somebody...Help! Not just anybody!"

OK - Now I am going to have that song stuck in my head...lol.

I am finally feeling better and I have a new bracelet to show you. I am really proud of
this piece as I made it "on the fly" out of my own head. I am really happy with the over all effect and look of the piece. But I need your help:

What would you pay for this piece? If you are a designer - what would be a fair price?

It needs a name - please help me name it.

Doing a little happy dance!

2008-07-13T18:51:00.000-07:00

Well - I have had a good Etsy weekend for a couple of reasons. First of all, an Etsy seller by the name of Noah's Ark Collection picked my "Hip To Be Square" earrings for a treasury that they created. (By the way - she has some wonderful animal items in her shop - mainly beads and charms - I have spotted a couple of beads there that may have to find their way into future pieces that I make.) I am terribly excited about this as this is only the second treasury that I have been featured in. To make things even more exciting, while I was at work yesterday, this treasury actually made it to the front page of Etsy. This is hugely exciting for me - I have never made it to the front page of Etsy, so I am really happy about this. But as my luck would have it - I was at work when this happened (of course) and I guess that the treasury had *just* made it to the front page of Etsy when their system crashed - so although it should have been there for a little while, it was only there about 5 minutes (bummer).

So, I decided to share my news with my online friends. And one of them liked my earrings so much that she bought them (thanks Cyn)!! And now Noah's Ark Collection was kind enough to choose another pair of earrings from my shop to feature.

I am showing you pictures of both treasuries - the original one that made it to the front page - and the second with the "new" earrings.

All in all - this has been a really great Etsy weekend for me! Do I dare hope that the second pair of earrings may sell as well???

It's voting time....

2008-07-10T09:52:00.000-07:00

No - it's too early to cast your vote for the presidential elections, but if you would like to give yourself some practice, it is time for everyone to vote on the monthly challenge for the Etsy Bead Weavers team. There are some really amazing pieces created for this month's challenge of "A Midsummer's Night Dream." Please take a few moments to check out the wonderful bead weaving available there and vote for your favorite!

http://etsy-beadweavers.blogspot.com/

I was not able to enter this month's challenge - but there are so many beautiful listings that I want to encourage everyone to visit and vote!

Sick...

2008-07-07T17:02:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update here:

I have not been doing much here as of late as I have come down with a nasty case of bronchitis - something I have not had in years. I have been spending a lot of time resting and a little time creating when I feel up to it. Hopefully, I will have a new bracelet for everyone to look at soon.

Trying to Keep My Chin Up...

2008-06-29T22:56:00.000-07:00

Sooooo, I attended Comfest this weekend - and to be quite honest, I was quite disappointed yet again. This is only the 2nd show that I have done to date - and the first one I sold nothing. This one was a tad better - but for 2 days that I attended this show I still made less than $50 - which was a huge disappointment for me. The event was well attended - but sales were slow - all the way around. But most of the other vendors still did much better than I did (thankfully for them).

I know the economy is slow right now. But I am really discouraged right now and I am trying to figure out how not to be so down on myself. I can't help but wonder if this business venture of mine is worth the time and effort that goes into it. It also makes me wonder whether anyone really likes my jewelery - or if they are just being nice to me. A vast majority of my sales are to my friends and family - and so it is now making me second guess myself.

So - now the question is this: How do I get around this slump? And how do I start to feel better about my jewelery? Is it worth the time and effort? What can I do to make things better? Is my jewelery worth it?

Any feedback would be nice....thanks for letting me vent...

What I have been up too....

2008-06-17T17:57:00.000-07:00

Ahhh - so at long last I finally have some pictures to upload to my blog. I am very proud of the pieces that I have created in the past week as they represent a first for me on 3 levels: These are my first pieces I have created using flat peyote stitch. The bracelets are the first I have made where I have made the clasp as well. And this is my first attempt at making a ring. I have already started a 3rd bracelet in red, black and white. I will not be listing these pieces in my shop right away as they are part of my inventory for Comfest which is 10 days away (EEK!!!). I am thinking that there are not nearly enough hours in the day at this point as today will most likely be my last day off before Comfest.

Please let me know what you think of my newest adventure in beading. I am really loving working with Peyote stitch, so hope that I have some knack for it.

Oh - and for those of your wondering out there - the silver and blue bracelet and ring are made with size 11 Delicas in steel and size 15 seed beads. The purple bracelet is made with size 11 seed beads.

Oddly - I choose to do the purple bracelet based on the lightest color. When I go shopping for beads, I often choose colors that I like and want to play with. I discovered when going through my beading stash a few nights ago that I had 3 tubes of the lightest color in this bracelet - decided that I must really love this color which is "gold lustered lavender." I had to chuckle at myself a bit for this one - my forgetfulness hits home at this point...lol.

Wow....

2008-06-11T20:44:00.001-07:00

I had no idea it had been 2 months so I last blogged. Time flies....

So I guess I am well past due on an update.

I have actually already done my first show on May 4th - and to be honest it was a bust. I have 2 more days at this same event so I am hopeful that the other days will go better.

We did in fact make it into Comfest. I have been busy making items for this event. I have so many ideas of things that I want to create - there just are not enough hours in the day right now. Comfest will be held in Goodale Park here in Columbus June 27, 28, and 29th. If you are in or around the area, please stop by and say hello! I plan on being at the event Friday and Saturday for sure - and most likely Sunday as well. My attendance on Sunday will be dependent on how much inventory I have left at that point to be honest.

I will be posting some new pictures after Comfest - either here or to my Flickr account and hopefully I will have some new items to list as well in my Etsy shop.

I have been accepted to the Etsy Beadweavers team! This is very exciting for me - please take a look at their blog - which is listed on the right side of the page. There is some really amazing talent there - more than once I have had my jaw drop at some of the creations these ladies are making!!!! I highly encourage you to check it out!

I am off to bed for now. Hopefully there will be pictures to post soon!

It's been a month....

2008-04-10T19:55:00.000-07:00

Since I last blogged. I have had so much going on in that time.

I finished this lovely stitched card as a thank you for an order that I received. I really love the colors in it. I finish the stitched piece as a magnet so that it can be removed and used.

I've been working really hard on promoting my website and making new jewelery designs. It has been extremely time-consuming and I am getting a little burned out on being in front of my computer. I had no idea how hard it is to actually try to get your name out there on the internet. Let me just say that it is NOT for the faint of heart - or for those with little patience.

Let's see - I celebrated my 34th birthday April 7th. I didn't do anything besides go to work and come home and take a nap. So it was a very mundane day.

The biggest issue I have dealt with was putting down my dog on March 13th. My poor girl had an advanced case of mammary gland cancer, and although I am grateful that she is no longer suffering, I miss her. I am still adjusting to her not being around. I have shed many tears over her being gone - but know I will see her again one day. If anyone out there has a pet - spend a little extra time with them for me. Give them an extra scratch or 2 - and let them know that they are loved.

The place that I took my dog sent me an ink print of her paws which I loved. One of my friends is going to design a cross stitch design for me using her paw print. I am going to incorporate the words, "You left a paw print on my heart" with it. This will be a long time off as I have so many other things going on right now.

With any luck, I will be doing my first craft fair at the end of June. It is a huge event here in Columbus. My other local Etsy team members and I are trying to go together to get a booth for this event - we are just waiting to hear now if we got accepted to the event. Hopefully we will hear something soon! I am getting impatient!

I will post some more pictures of my jewelery creations later, but this is enough for now.

Record snowfall....

2008-03-08T22:05:00.000-08:00

Wow - for once the weather people were right. We have actually just come through a full blown blizzard here in Columbus. On the news tonight, the final snowfall total was 20.4 inches of snow - a record for this area! I had to clean off the steps earlier today to let the dog out - and it was a mess - the snow was up to my knees! I was off yesterday, today and I am off tomorrow and I am SO happy about that. Of course it is supposed to be 50 by the end of this week - and all that snow has to go somewhere so I have a feeling that flood warnings will be happening by the end of the week.

As for jewelery: I have all the beads made now for my friend Julie's football themed bracelet - just need to put it together - which I hope to do later tonight or tomorrow.

I have worked a bit more on my wolf spirit - hopefully will get some more done on it tomorrow - and if I can get some decent pictures, I will hopefully have some to post here as well.

My lil dog is slowly getting better - the antibiotics seem to be helping - just not as quickly as I would like. (What can I say? I am a worried and impatient Mom...)

It's 2:30AM

2008-02-29T23:27:00.000-08:00

And I should be in bed. But I decided that I needed to put in an update here before I do...lol. Ah - the joys of being a computer junkie and not being able to go to bed until I do that one more thing.

Actually - that sounds like my life quite a bit. I am an avid cross-stitcher - so I am notorious for doing the "just want to finish this thread/stitch/row/color before I go to bed and next thing you know another hour or two has gone by and I am still sitting in the chair. That happens with my jewelery all the time as well.

It would wonderful if I didn't need to sleep. Actually - it would be nice to be able when and how long I needed to sleep. I say this because I actually do enjoy sleeping. It's nice to be able to shut the brain down for a while.

I had one of the worst days I have ever had at work yesterday. Suffice it to say I had to help unload a lot of furniture (about 75 pieces) off of our truck yesterday that was all lose loaded. It was awful! All of our furniture is made from hard wood - so the stuff is really heavy - especially the dining room tables and chairs. No lunch break either - so I was really happy to be able to leave yesterday and even more glad that I had today off. I am really sore today - and for some reason have been battling a headache that won't quit.

My dog, Ida Mae has been really sick this week. I am hoping that today was a turning point for her and that she is going to start feeling better. She has some sort of infection - so I am just waiting for some antibiotics for her at this time and see what those do for her. She is an absolute love - I was very blessed when she came into my life 4 years ago.

I working on a football themed bracelet for a friend of mine (also named Julie) who lives in Cincinnati, Ohio. I have gotten one bead made at this point - but hope to get it all made up by bedtime tomorrow. I think it is going to look really cool when I get it all done. I will post pictures here once I get it all done.

Oooo - I almost forgot - Etsy was featured on the Martha Stewart show this morning! How cool is that? I forgot it was on but someone was kind enough to provide a link and I am now sharing that with you! Nice segment - I wish it had been a little longer.

Let's see tomorrow I plan to give some TLC to the dog....she needs it right now. I am going to work on Julie's bracelet, promote my etsy site, make up some discount cards for giveaway's for a couple of out of state craft shows, and work on my wolf spirit cross stitch. Oh - and how could I forget doing laundry and dishes? (Quite easily really - since it always the part I WANT to forget...lol.)

It is now 3 am - so I guess that is a hint for me to sign off and go to bed...

Sneak peek

2008-02-25T20:14:00.001-08:00

These are just a few pictures of pieces that I will be uploading to my Etsy site soon. The pictures are not at the quality that I like for my shop, but thought I would post them here so that everyone could see what is coming soon! (I ran out of daylight and batteries for my camera - but have the batteries now - so the next day that is even remotely sunny that I have the time off - I will be snapping away...)

Update on Dad....

2008-02-25T19:37:00.001-08:00

Hmmmm - I just realized that I have not updated anyone on my Dad. The past 8 months or so have been really long and emotionally draining at times. I will not go into play by play detail, but will say the following - my Dad is an amazing and wonderful man. I am amazed at all that he has been and continues to go through on a daily basis - and yet he still manages to have a great sense of humor, laugh and love.

He has been on chemo since end of May beginning of June - and last report was that it was doing the trick. He started on dialysis July 30. He had a bowel resection that failed and ended up with a colostemy - that was a nearly month long hospital stay - and he was really sick. That was back in Oct/Nov. He has surgery to install a fistula for dialysis - it was buried too deep - so he had surgery again today to move it closer to the skin so that it can actually be used. Oh - and he had a blod clot in his leg just recently (side effect from one of the chemo drugs).

That's about all in a nutshell - since I am planning on blogging more, I am sure that I will have more detailed updates.

Oh and case you didn't guess - this is my Dad - this past summer after he started the chemo.

Another blah day here...

2008-02-25T18:30:00.000-08:00

*sigh* I am so sick of winter - it seems that this winter has dragged on with no hope of ever seeing green grass or feeling a warm breeze on your face again. About a week ago, after a very cold walk home from the bus stop, I walked in the door and looked at my SO and said, "Global warming my a**." (Not to make light of global warming as I feel it is a very serious issue - but that particular night I was feeling a little irritable.)

That being said, I am having issues finding the desire to create anything new - I get out of bed in the morning, get ready for work, walk to the bus stop, work, go back to the bus stop and then walk back home, perhaps play on the computer, and go to bed. Mundane. Boring. Monotonous.

So I made a decision today to try to update my blog at least several times a week - I said when I first started this blog, that this would be about me and my life - including my jewelery, hobbies, love life and everything else. If you don't want to read my blog, then don't. I won't be offended - really - I won't. But if you want to know a little bit more about me as a person, what makes me tick, what my pet peeves are.....then read away.

Speaking of pet peeves - I have a lot of them. That being said however, my number one pet peeve is people who talk on the phone while I am trying to wait on them. That just grates on my last nerve. (I work in retail and this happens all the time.) I will try to pretend that they are not talking on the phone so I will say something like "Hi - How are you today?" Which is usually followed by this from them: "Yadda, yadda, yadda, yadda">while ignoring the fact that I am STANDING RIGHT IN FRONT OF THEM!!! I swear I had a girl yesterday, who talked on her phone so loudly that her conversation could be heard throughout most of the store (I work in a large store). By the way, she was discussing whether she was just going to have her sister as her bridesmaid in her wedding - or a huge wedding party. (I see a future Bridezilla in the making here....) And just for the record here - I understand emergencies, important phone calls, and even answering the phone and asking to call the person calling back - I get that. I do. But please, for the love of all things holy, show some respect to the person on the other side of the counter and get off the phone if it can wait for 2 minutes.

I love people - they make life interesting. But sometimes, I just want to gouge someone's eyeballs out with a spoon for being rude.

Funny thing about my little rant is I have actually had a good day today - bet you can't wait to see me when I have had a really bad day....

My latest additions...

2008-02-16T20:48:00.000-08:00

This is going to be a very quick blog as I am really tired and I need to go to bed soon. But I wanted to show you all my latest additions to my site!

Back - after a long hiatus....

2008-02-15T07:45:00.000-08:00

Wow - I can't believe that it was May the last time I updated my blog - I figure I better get something in here to at least show that I am around - even though I don't have much in the way of new additions to my website with the exception of this bracelet that is shown to the right. I have called it Rings around Mars - since Mars is known as the red planet. (Thanks to my friend Julie for helping me name this as I was stumped...lol.)

This could easily be an OSU bracelet as the colors are scarlet and gray - but I try really hard not to put ALL of my scarlet and gray pieces into the OSU category. I was surprised to find that a lot of people would buy scarlet and gray jewelery to wear - even if technically had nothing to do with the Buckeyes (ie. no Buckeyes on the pieces, or OSU lettering).

I am happy to be back online and creating again - I was offline for about 6 months - and had some issues with the computer before that - I am still having issues with the computer, but I am learning to work around it...lol. (My boyfriend insists that he knows how to fix the computer, but I am STILL waiting and he's the one that screwed it up anyways!)

One of my next projects is going to be something new for me - I am going to make an amulet bag. This is going to be a rather involved project - but I am excited about it.

Got some new pics added...

2007-05-29T21:23:00.000-07:00

YAY! I got some new and improved pics taken of some of my other pieces of jewelery tonight. These pieces have been on my Etsy site for quite some time now, but the pictures were not all that good. I am hoping that these are an improvement over the old pics - and also hope that the improved pics will possibly get these beautiful items to sell.

I also got the picture taken of my new bracelet and earrings tonight. I am well pleased with this one. My partner, Ansel and I had a debate on the color of this bracelet as he says it is purple and I say it is blue. So the name of this is now "Debateable", and we will just say that it is a bluish/purply color...lol. The seed beads in this do have a purple finish to them - which makes for a lovely set.

Let me know what you think!

Life Goes On...

2007-05-29T13:50:00.000-07:00

Well, I've not been around much to do any updating over the long holiday weekend. I had to work all weekend, so I have really not done much of anything except work. I did get a bracelet made up at some point over the weekend, but have not taken any pictures yet. May have to get some pictures taken later on of this as well as some other pieces I have ready to go. I also need to retake some pics of some pieces that are listed on my Etsy site as they are terribly blurry. Wish me luck as the digital camera and I don't always get along. (This usually involves some name-calling on my part, followed by empty promises "If you will just take this one picture and not be blurry, I promise I will never call you names again...". It usually ends with tears and a great deal of frustration on my part...lol.)

Dad goes for a consultation to the Cleveland Clinic on Friday. This is where my frustration at not having a car comes into full swing. Dad lives an hour away from me and Cleveland is about a 2 hour drive. I cannot go with him to this appointment and I feel that I absolutely need to be there. This situation is so frustrating for me. Columbus is a hard enough town to get around in without a car - took me 2 1/2 hours to get within a 2-3 mile radius of my apt Fri night - on the bus line. Sad thing is that I only work about 5-6 miles from my house. They have started him on a med to try to slow the kidney failure as BUN levels sky-rocketed over the weekend - Friday level was 61 - today a 99. I believe normal levels for this are 10-20.

All righty then - off to attempt some pictures...lol. Perhaps if I have good luck, I will have some pictures to post to my blog later on today.

Devastating evening...

2007-05-24T21:42:00.000-07:00

I know that this is brand new blog and many of you do not know me all that well. Let me assure you that normally, I am a really upbeat person who can almost find the positive in any situation.

Yesterday, I wrote about my Dad and his multiple myleoma. Tonight he called to tell me that they are starting him tomorrow on chemo as his kidneys are failing rapidly at this point and they are trying to avoid putting him on dialysis. (If the chemo does not work quickly, he will most likely be on dialysis within the month.) They are looking at sending him back to Cleveland Clinic to look into a double bone marrow transplant once the chemo is finished. After that, they will see if he is eligible for a kidney transplant. (At this time, he is not eligible for a kidney transplant because the cancer would just kill the good kidney.)

I am trying to keep a positive spin on this, but I am really struggling right now. In fact, I would say that I am pretty devastated right now. I adore my Dad - and not just because he is my Dad. I adore him because he truly what it means to be a good person. I have absolutely NOTHING bad to say about him and I am a little lost right now.

Just let me rant a bit: This is SO not fair! He was just married in March and for the first time since my Mom died over 8 years ago, he is happy again. It just doesn't seem right. I am just so angry at the injustice of the whole situation.

Ok - I'll stop for now - anybody out there feel like posting to this message? I could use some encouragement at this point. Or a good laugh. Or even a stiff drink....lol.

Julie

Tomato Recipe

2007-05-24T15:45:00.000-07:00

Well - with the summer growing season right around the corner, I know there will be a lot of people out there with lots of fresh, yummy tomatoes. I have a recipe that I would like to share with all of you - it was my Grandmother's recipe and it is delicious!

My Favorite Tomatoes

Mix together the following:

5T oil
2T vinegar
3t sugar
1T snipped fresh dill
Salt and pepper to taste

Pour the above mixtuer over 2 large fully ripe tomatoes, peeled and sliced and 1 small onion that has been peeled, sliced and seperated into rings.

Refrigerate until served.

(I recommend chilling at least 2 hours.)

Hope you enjoy - this is quick and easy recipe to take to a Memorial Day gathering - plus it involves no cooking!

Julie

Crummy Couple of Days...

2007-05-24T03:58:00.000-07:00

So as I said in my first post, I will be posting here about my personal life as well as business and the last 2 days have not been all that great. I guess I will need to provide a little background for those of you who do not know my story.

Four years ago, my Dad was diagnosed with chronic renal failure. At the time, it was attributed to high blood pressure which never made a whole lot of sense to me as his blood pressure was caught and treated pretty quickly. He did everything right - watched his diet, exercised - and still the kidneys were failing more quickly than they would have liked and still the docs were not sure why. So right before Christmas last year (2005), we made a trip to Cleveland Clinic where my Dad was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer called multiple myleoma. How I understand this cancer is that it is actually a bone marrow cancer that maifests itself by attacking the organs - namely the kidneys and in rare cases, the liver. All of sudden, his kidney finction loss makes sense to me.

To this point we have been really lucky as he has not had to have any treatment and he feels pretty good. In March he was married (to my WONDERFUL stepmom, Coleen) and right around that time had some bad bloodwork come back - his kidney function had taken a rather large dip. After more testing the docs have determined that it is time to start chemo and as soon as possible as the cancer has progressed further along than they realized. I got this news yesterday and although I have had tome to get used to this whole idea, I guess I am still not ready for this. But if it keeps him off of dialysis, then I hope it will be worth it. (My Mom died from renal failure 8 years ago now - so I know all too well just how hard dialysis can be. I know that many people do fine with dialysis, but my Mom was incredibly sick during her last year and a half and so the idea of watching my Dad go through kidney failure is almost more than I can bear.)

I just did a lot of crying yesterday. I didn't sleep much last night or the night before - big surprise there.

I have to call off of work today as I have no money for bus fare and it is a 5 mile walk to work - one way - I don't think I can handle walking too and from work plus actually working an 8 hour shift. This is a real bummer to me as I really like my job and I really need all the money that I can get right now.

Hmmm - maybe I can put the extra time to good use today and get some more jewelery designed and posted - that would indeed be a good thing on both counts. Guess I will have to see if I can find the money later on in the day to go buy batteries for my camera....lol.

I do have one more piece that I can list today. I have added it above - what do you all think? I hae decided that I love blue and brown together and this piece is a testament to that.

OK - that's all that my rambling brain can think to write for now. Hope everyone has a great day!

Julie

Well, we all have to start somewhere...

2007-05-22T08:59:00.000-07:00

Ahhh - so here it is - my very first entry in my very first blog. This is sooo exciting and just a little bit intimidating. But I have been playing around with the idea of a blog for quite sometime and have finally decided to take the plunge.

This is going to be primarily a business blog - although don't be surprised if personal comments end up here as well. I do believe in mixing business and pleasure so writing in my blog about everyday happenings as well as business only makes sense to me.

I have 2 exciting things to actually write about today in regards to my business:

First: I actually had an online sale last night - the first one I have had in about 8 months! (I was offline for over 6 of those months.) I sold the set shown above which is one of my favorite pieces that I have created to this point. I am soooo happy about this. I am trying so hard to get the word out about my jewelery. For any of you thinking of going into business online, let me just tell you that for the huge potential audience that you have with the internet - it is soooo hard to get the word out. I mean you can always pay advertising fees - but then the question is where do you advertise to get the most potential business for your website and is it actually affordable? I have found both of these issues to be a problem.

My second bit of news is that one of my friends listed a picture of one of my bracelets on her website. My piece is the second one down - a simple chain work piece, but it is one of my favorite bracelets I have made as it is so much fun! I am in the process of making another one of these bracelets and hope to have it completed soon. For those of you out there who do chain work - she is just getting her web site going and she has some lovely things - including top quality jump rings in sterling silver which is great for chain mail works. Take a look around her site: http://www.wired-works.com/ Her name is Beth - tell her that I sent you if you decide to place an order!

Anyways - that's about all for now. Thanks for stopping by to take a look and read about what has been going on with me!

Julie